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Sheet Metal Process Technician

The Sheet Metal Process Technician is responsible for the setup, operation, programming, and teardown of sheet metal fabrication equipment, including an IPG fiber laser, press brake, PEM insertion machine, sander, and related machinery. This role will utilize Radan CAD/CAM software to program laser cutting operations and optimize material nesting layouts to maximize yield and minimize scrap. Prior experience with CAD/CAM or nesting software is a plus. The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical aptitude with a commitment to quality, safety, and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Equipment Setup & Teardown

• Perform complete setup and teardown of sheet metal fabrication equipment, including the IPG fiber laser, press brake, PEM insertion machine, belt sander, and ancillary tools
• Install, adjust, and verify tooling, fixtures, and work-holding devices to drawing specifications prior to production runs
• Conduct pre-operation inspections and functional checks on all assigned equipment to ensure safe and proper working order
• Complete accurate setup documentation, including run logs, material lot tracking, and tooling records
• Execute equipment changeovers efficiently to minimize downtime between production runs
• Perform post-run teardown, clean equipment and work areas, and return tooling to designated storage locations

IPG Fiber Laser Operation & Programming

• Program the IPG 1kW fiber laser using Radan CAD/CAM software, including part geometry import, tool path generation, and cut parameter selection on a 4'x4' capacity cutting bed.
• Develop and optimize nesting layouts to maximize material utilization and minimize scrap across a variety of sheet sizes and thicknesses
• Select and validate cut parameters (power, speed, assist gas, focus position) for various materials including mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
• Monitor laser cutting operations, identify anomalies, and make real-time adjustments to maintain part quality
• Manage and maintain the Radan program library, including revision control and archiving of approved programs

Press Brake Operation

• Set up and operate the press brake using appropriate tooling (punches and dies) for specified bend angles, radii, and material gauges
• Interpret engineering drawings and bend sequences to produce accurate formed parts within tolerance
• Perform first-article inspections and in-process checks using calipers, angle gauges, and other measurement tools
• Adjust back gauges, crowning, and tonnage settings as required for consistent results

PEM Insertion Machine & Hardware Installation

• Set up and operate the PEM insertion press to install threaded fasteners, studs, standoffs, nuts, and other hardware into sheet metal components
• Select correct tooling heads and verify proper installation per engineering specifications and hardware manufacturer requirements
• Inspect installed hardware for proper seating, thread engagement, and pull-out strength

Finishing & Sanding Operations

• Operate belt and/or disc sanders to deburr, blend welds, and finish sheet metal surfaces to specified surface finish requirements
• Use hand deburring tools and files as needed to prepare parts for downstream operations or final inspection

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Perform first-article and in-process inspections using precision measurement tools; document results and disposition nonconforming parts
• Identify and communicate opportunities to reduce scrap, improve nesting efficiency, or streamline setup procedures
• Participate in root cause analysis for recurring quality issues and implement corrective actions
• Support 5S, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement initiatives within the factory

Safety & Compliance

• Operate all equipment in strict compliance with company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and machine-specific lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures
• Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed footwear
• Report near-misses, unsafe conditions, and equipment deficiencies to supervision immediately

Work Environment/Physical Requirements

• Frequent standing, walking, and bending
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly
• Fine motor dexterity for tooling and setups
• Extended periods of standing at machines
• Exposure to noise, metal dust, fumes, and laser light

Qualifications

• Required: 3+ years of hands-on experience in sheet metal fabrication, including setup and operation of laser cutting, press brake, or related equipment
• Proficiency with Radan or equivalent CAD/CAM nesting/programming software is a plus.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and bill of materials
• Proficiency with precision measurement tools: calipers, micrometers, angle gauges, and height gauges
• Strong understanding of material properties, gauges, and sheet metal fabrication processes
• Solid mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills for equipment and process issues
• High school diploma or GED
• Preferred: Direct experience programming and operating IPG fiber laser systems
• Experience with PEM insertion equipment and fastener hardware standards
• Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies
• Vocational training, apprenticeship, or associate degree in manufacturing technology or related field
• Experience working in an ISO-certified or otherwise quality-regulated manufacturing environment
• Experience in sanitary weld is a plus